2021 Toyota Camry vs 2020 Nissan Sentra

In 2020, the Nissan Sentra underwent a significant visual transformation. Historically, the Sentra wasn't known for its aesthetic appeal, often appearing plain and utilitarian. However, the 2020 Sentra broke this mold. Test vehicles, especially those adorned in eye-catching hues like Electric Blue, turned heads with their modern looks. Even the mid-level SV trim, despite its smaller 16-inch alloy wheels and halogen headlights, appeared refined rather than drab. The Sentra boasted a design that's a scaled-down version of the larger Altima, making it appear more substantial. It sat two inches lower and wider than its predecessor, providing a broad stance and sophisticated creases along its body. The V-shaped grille was tastefully executed, lending the car an unmistakable and mature presence. The interior, apart from some hard plastic elements on the rear doors and switches, matched the exterior's premium feel, with leatherette dash and quality finishes hinting at higher-priced vehicles.

The 2021 Toyota Camry worked to shake off its "generic car" image with a more dynamic design approach. The Camry’s flared wheel arches and sleek headlights added a sense of width and aggression. However, certain trims like the SE, XSE, and TRD were criticized for their overly busy fake vents, which created visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims featured cleaner yet still massive grilles. The interior followed a similar eclectic design philosophy. Our SE Nightshade Edition test model featured a mix of materials, from piano black plastics to faux carbon fiber, creating a disjointed aesthetic. Despite this, seats in higher trims like the XLE and XSE provided comfort with leather upholstery, though some parts of the interior still felt low-grade.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra focused on simplicity with its sole powertrain—a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) driving the front wheels. This setup provided a smooth and responsive driving experience, even without manual modes or paddle shifters, thanks to the CVT’s adept imitation of gear shifts. The Sentra’s independent rear suspension and well-tuned chassis facilitated commendable handling and a comfortable ride. However, acceleration lagged slightly, especially past 30 mph, and the throttle could be overly sensitive. Fuel efficiency was rated favorably at 29 mpg city, 39 highway, and 33 combined.

In comparison, the 2021 Toyota Camry offered more variety in its powertrains. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, labeled Dynamic Force, produced 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in FWD trims, slightly adjusted in AWD configurations. An XSE trim could enhance this to 206 horsepower with dual exhausts. Additionally, the Camry offered a robust 3.5-liter V6 with 301 horsepower and a hybrid variant with a total system output of 208 horsepower. Our test vehicle, an SE Nightshade Edition with the base engine and AWD, impressed with its lively, sporty engine characteristics. The responsive steering and balanced chassis made it enjoyable to drive, though not as sharp as some competitors. The TRD model offered even more enthusiast-oriented tweaks. Moreover, the AWD system borrowed from the RAV4 maximized traction without affecting interior space.

Inside the 2020 Nissan Sentra, the backseat provided unexpected spaciousness, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. Upfront, Zero Gravity seats promised reduced fatigue during long drives, and the laid-out dashboard ensured easy access to controls. The view from the rear window, however, was limited, and the trunk offered 14.3 cubic feet of cargo space, less than its predecessor but still ample for its class.

The 2021 Toyota Camry excelled in rear passenger comfort with ample headroom and legroom, although front seat dimensions were less generous. Additionally, cargo capacity at 15.1 cubic feet was on par with midsize sedan averages but fell short of the Honda Accord’s roominess. Inside storage was minimal, consistent with sedan standards. The intuitive analog controls for essential functions helped ease use, despite some ergonomic issues like the reachability of certain knobs. Dual-zone climate control added a touch of luxury at higher trims.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra did not feature Nissan’s ProPilot semi-automated driving system, navigation, or wireless charging. However, it included essentials like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, WiFi, multiple USB ports, and larger screens in the SV trim, along with advanced lighting options in upgraded packages. Missing luxuries like the Bose sound system and sunroof could be found in higher packages. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, and a proximity-entry key.

Conversely, the 2021 Toyota Camry's base infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM. Higher trims introduced a 9-inch touchscreen, WiFi for five devices, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch HUD was available on XSE and XLE trims. Unlike higher-end variants, fewer USB ports were provided, and while the infotainment system was functional, its graphics were mundane.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra was anticipated to score high in safety tests. It featured a substantial list of safety additions, including rear side and knee airbags, not common in compact cars. Other standard features included emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, including a "Top Safety Pick+" distinction. Toyota’s TSS 2.5+ safety suite came standard, upgrading previously established systems with added functionalities like improved adaptive cruise control and forward-collision detection involving cyclists and left-turn scenarios. The new Rear Seat Reminder system was also standard, aiming to prevent forgotten passengers. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, standard on higher trims.